US and Spain Discuss Economic Cooperation and Defense Spending
The US Department of the Treasury has issued a statement following a meeting between Secretary Scott KH Bessent and Spanish Minister of Economy, Trade and Business, Carlos Cuerpo. The statement outlines key points discussed during their meeting, with a focus on defense spending and taxation issues.
During the discussions, Secretary Bessent emphasized the importance of increased defense spending by Spain within the NATO framework. The meeting also addressed the ongoing opposition of the United States to the digital services tax imposed by Spain and some other countries, which has become a point of contention in international trade relations.
In addition to this, the Treasury Department highlighted that both officials engaged in open conversations about various trade challenges faced by the US and Spain. Minister Cuerpo expressed the intention of the United States to reach a negotiated agreement with the European Union concerning tariff policies. He stated, "A clear message conveyed by Secretary Bessent is that they want to reach an agreement with major trading partners, including of course the European Union."
When asked about the feasibility of reaching an agreement before the 90-day deadline set by the US administration, Cuerpo confirmed the possibility of negotiations. He noted that the meeting reinforced the open door to discussions established with the recent 90-day moratorium on tariffs announced by former President Donald Trump.
Cuerpo described his meeting with Bessent as a constructive and useful first contact aimed at strengthening relations and addressing mutual interests. According to sources from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business, this meeting aligns with the ongoing efforts to enhance ties with one of Spain's largest trading partners, the United States.
When questioned further about Bessent's comments regarding Europe's alignment with China being detrimental, Cuerpo indicated that this particular topic was not discussed in detail, asserting that the conversation was centered around open dialogue about various economic aspects. He reaffirmed that the discussions were valuable and comprehensive, focusing on the relations between the United States, Spain, and the European Union with other major economic players, particularly China.
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